Biological Research Volunteer Programs Abroad

Volunteer at the Galápagos National Park and get the chance to assist at the tortoise breeding center. You will be a member of the research and zookeeping staff. Take responsibility for taking care of and measuring the shells of tortoises for their growth charts, as well as informing tourists of rul

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio

Join healthcare and medical projects, and gain practical experience in hospitals, clinics, assisted living, and other related facilities in Costa Rica. You’ll work alongside doctors, nurses, therapists, and other medical professionals. Depending on your medical experience and Spanish language sk

Join the ranks of forward-thinking healthcare professionals through International Medical Aid's (IMA) Physician Assistant and Pre-PA Internships. Our program, rooted in the educational standards of Johns Hopkins University, is designed to propel undergraduate students, PA school attendees, certified

Lying in the crystal-clear tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao’s abundant and diverse coral reefs offer some of the finest scuba diving found anywhere on the planet! The perfect location to maximize your diving and reef ecology experience, this exciting and in-depth program has been spe

Join our Best Seller Program! Combine immersive Spanish lessons with Surf or Yoga classes and meaningful volunteer work at our home base in beautiful Santa Teresa—one of the top surf spots in the country. Make a real impact through purposeful volunteering, help with sea turtle conservation, assist

Do you love the outdoors? Want to help protect Costa Rica’s National Parks? Our Environmental Protection programs allow volunteers to take part in vital conservation works in some of the most bio-diverse regions of Costa Rica. This inspiring conservation program works to promote and encourage susta

We are a non-governmental, non-profit organization that develops and supports projects in environmental education and scientific research on biodiversity, ecology, as well as on the behavior of fauna and flora of Brazilian ecosystems. Volunteers can participate as Biodiversity Research Assistants a

Help preserve the famous Big 5 safari reserve, seeing a side of Phinda that many tourists don’t get to experience. Become part of the main research team, helping to manage thriving populations of rhinos, elephants, lions, cheetahs, pangolins, and more. Observing these animals in their natural habita

Looking for an international internship that will set you apart—and give you the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in your career? Connect-123 designs fully customized programs that match your background and goals, offering hands-on experience in some of the world’s most exciting cities:

Eco Caminhos is an international permaculture farm and learning community located in the mountains of Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, within Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. For over 12 years, we have been developing regenerative projects focused on bioconstruction, agroforestry, sustainability education,

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g

Are you interested in collaborating with a local community, focusing on the development of a permaculture initiative as well as protection of biodiversity in an off-the-beaten location known for its global importance? In that case, sign up for a Sustainable Development Program - a field volunteer p

This beachside program in the Dominican Republic is designed for students who want their summer to feel both meaningful and unforgettable. Over eight days, you’ll live and travel along the country’s stunning coasts and vibrant towns while working with local communities on health, wellness, and small

Discover the wonders of marine life in the Philippines while helping to save its oceans with Marine Conservation Philippines (MCP). As a volunteer, you'll get hands-on experience in protecting coral reefs, from building artificial reefs to surveying underwater ecosystems. These surveys help scientis

A structured international clinical shadowing experience designed for pre-med, medical, nursing, and allied health students who want more than classroom learning — they want real exposure. This program places you in real hospital environments in the birthplace of modern medicine, the land of Hippocr

Build your skills through a service-learning experience in Valparaíso, Chile’s vibrant coastal city known for its colorful hillsides, historic harbor, and rich cultural heritage. Partner with a local organization while exploring nearby Viña del Mar and reflecting on your experiences through a guided

Through World Internships, we offer flexible customized internships (volunteers are also welcome) in a variety of fields in the "Land Down Under". Realize your dream of living and working in beautiful Australia while enjoying exceptional support and group activities that will engage you with both yo

Pulling the best of all our programming, Latitudes is a sequential, growth-oriented experience for students looking to see the landscape before diving deeper. It is an immersive gap year experience combining a group travel semester and an individual volunteer placement. As a Latitudes student, you’l

Inspire, Educate & Empower Communities Across the World Are you passionate about education and cross-cultural exchange? Do you dream of making a positive impact while traveling the world? With Volunteering Journeys’ English Teaching Programs Abroad, you can inspire young minds, build confidence, an

Join the Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon (ASA) at Finca Las Piedras, a biological research station in the Peruvian Amazon. Work alongside researchers and conservationists while contributing to biological research, reforestation, and wildlife surveys. Live and work in a field station in one of the

Everyone has heard of the Big 5—Africa's “must-see” animals! But are you ready for your disappointing fact of the day? They are called that because they were the most difficult to hunt. Because of this, “claim to fame” hunters have gone overboard, making each of these animals endangered and needing

This all-in-one semester begins with one month traveling Spain by train, followed by two months in Barcelona where you choose your pathway. You’ll build soft skills (communication, confidence, problem-solving), hard skills (Spanish, digital tools, cooking), professional skills through internships or

Discover Patagonia like never before at La Esperanza Wildlife Refuge, where endless skies, red sunsets, and ocean waves set the stage for an adventure with purpose. Picture yourself living in the wild, surrounded by guanacos, maras, and the haunting calls of nature. This is more than just volunteeri

The Andean region near Guaranda is rich in biodiversity, with native forests, rivers, and traditional farmlands shaped by centuries of local knowledge. However, deforestation, agricultural expansion, and chemical fertilizers are degrading soils, reducing native vegetation, and polluting water source

Participate in this amazing program from World Unite! Immerse yourself in rural Japanese culture on scenic Sado Island while helping protect the endangered Crested Ibis—Japan's iconic bird—and conserve the agricultural heritage of terraced rice fields set up during the Edo Period. You'll join other

Pacific Discovery's Rewilding Gap Semester offers a unique 10-week escape for young adventurers (17-22) seeking to reconnect with nature, learn sustainable practices, and create lasting memories. This program goes beyond sightseeing; it's a chance to become a steward of the land and discover a deepe

Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome cho

Are you an undergraduate, master's, or PhD student in biology, conservation, ecology, or other related courses? Are you fascinated with wildlife and their natural habitats? Join our team on a conservation and ecology internship in the Swaziland savannah. The program focuses on researching, analy

Calling all ecologists and biologists! Here's a fantastic chance to obtain research experience, practice methods of environmental data collection, and even get work published. Venture to the Cocoa Coast in Bahia, Brazil, and monitor populations of the mangrove tree. You’ll monitor the regions. The

Looking to make a difference in the lives of others and to help foster change worldwide? Volunteer with African Impact, chosen by volunteers as the World’s Top Volunteer Abroad Organization! Join us in Zanzibar, where you will contribute to a project in your area of interest or study. We offer the

South Korea has a unique culture and history that has already reached far beyond Asia, impacting many parts of the Western world. In just a few decades, the Land of the Morning Calm rose to one of the globe’s richest economies and hosts many world-renowned brands from various industries - a dynamic

Green Life Volunteers is a registered non-profit organization or association in Costa Rica. We just earn enough to cover operational expenses, like payments for office space, employee services, and basic organizational costs. We work hard to provide volunteers with an amazing experience, with a lot

Experience hands-on conservation in Madagascar’s coastal forests through SEED Madagascar’s Conservation Research Programme. Based in the biodiverse region of Sainte Luce, Southeast Madagascar, this initiative has offered volunteers the opportunity to work alongside expert researchers and Malagasy f

The Galápagos Islands are a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and adventure. By participating in our programs, you’ll go beyond tourism to immerse yourself in daily life within this legendary biodiversity hotspot. Work alongside local experts to meet real needs in the community while waking up

We have a program open to participants who want to help our Medical Mobile Van Team. Under this project, our prime focus is to provide for and support the population living in rural areas and slums in Jaipur. The clinic reassures them that they are not alone in this world, strengthens their self-con

Each year, more than 130,000 seals, whales and dolphins are killed by the trash found in our oceans. This project aims to tackle ocean pollution off the coast of Portugal through diving. Volunteers complete daily dives in various dive sites near Lisbon, with the aim of removing debris from the reef

Are you interested in learning about whales and dolphins and observing them in their natural habitat while contributing to our conservation efforts? Join our unique conservation program in Lanzarote, where you can actively contribute to our mission of making whale-watching trips completely noise an

Embark on an exciting adventure in the Canary Islands with our environmental and sustainable development training, wherein you'll dive into the world of marine biology while actively protecting dolphins and whales! While you're based in Tenerife, help address pressing issues: marine pollution and in

This program is an immersive conservation experience in the remote wilderness of British Columbia, combining wildlife research, horseback fieldwork, and practical self-sufficiency training within a working ranch-based community environment. All participants begin with a wilderness horseback and gui

You don’t have to break the bank to learn a new language, explore a new culture, or acquire compulsory work experience in another country. Whether you seek an internship or a volunteering opportunity, Magister will help you realize that dream trip to South Africa. At Magister South Africa, we have

Asian Elephant Behaviour and Community Driven Conservation in Thailand This is a 4 week field course that offers university students the opportunity to join an ongoing research project studying the behavior and ecology of re-wilded Asian elephants in their natural habitat. Students will gain hands-

Explore Jamaica’s tropical rainforest! On this program, you’ll journey to Jamaica’s tropical rainforest high in the Blue and John Crow Mountains. After viewing its rustic landscape, there will be no question why it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The majestic slopes span across

Volunteer with the Peru Amazon Conservation Project through Globalteer to help research, conserve, and protect the rich and biologically diverse rainforest. Volunteers must be aged 18+, with a passion for conservation, learning, and the outdoors. A moderate level of fitness is important as this proj

Experience hands-on field research related to the conservation of savannah ecosystems in the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly called Swaziland). Although savannahs are well-represented in African conservation areas, they are subjected to increasing degradation as a result of human influences, including

Do you want to contribute to the research of the Amazon rainforest and learn about the rich flora and fauna of the Peruvian rainforest? Become part of an international research team of students, interns, and volunteers and support the protection and conservation of the rainforest through monitorin

Volunteer abroad in Ghana with Our Generation Voluntary Organisation. Our non-profit, non-governmental African organization offers meaningful, exciting, and affordable developmental volunteer programs. These include working with orphans, teaching children in primary and junior high schools, coaching

Volunteer in Costa Rica with A Broader View Volunteers, a highly rated non-profit charity organization. Volunteer placements are available throughout Costa Rica, mainly in San Jose and Escazu and the Pacific and Atlantic coastal regions. There are 19 program options available for volunteers to choos

Work alongside conservationists and researchers and dive with sharks in a controlled environment in this exciting program for young participants who are at least 15 years old and have a PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent scuba certification. Dispel negative myths surrounding sharks and discover the

Our Medical Volunteer in Arusha, is perfectly designed for medical students or those with a medical background looking to volunteer abroad! Here, you will work alongside experienced, English-speaking doctors and Nurses assisting in the care of the patients. Please note, that as this program is based

Join our community in creating lasting change by helping us build a brighter future for children through education. Our school has already completed four nursery classrooms, providing a safe learning environment for young children. We are now working to construct six additional classrooms for upper

Help protect the local marine ecosystem, turtles and other marine life, and the coral reef off the coast of the stunning island of Nosy Komba. Training Volunteers undergo thorough training to equip them for research and data collection activities in our marine program. This training includes the id

Volunteer with My Shepherd Ministry Uganda and experience rural life while supporting sustainable agriculture in Kamuli District. Work alongside local farmers to plant crops, prepare gardens, harvest produce, plant trees, and promote environmentally friendly farming practices that improve food secur

This program lets volunteers collaborate and participate in projects conducted in health clinics, non-profit organizations, or government agencies to spread awareness regarding the devastating disease known as HIV/AIDS. Participants help develop sexual health education; promote prevention programs

Volunteer in Costa Rica's Ostional Wildlife Refuge and contribute to the conservation of olive ridley sea turtles at one of the world's most important nesting beaches. Working alongside local conservationists, you'll participate in day and night patrols, beach monitoring, nest protection, data colle

We offer a unique Voluntourism & Cultural Exploration Program in Kisumu County, Western Kenya. This opportunity is designed for individuals who want to balance meaningful volunteer work with exploring local culture, nature, and tourist attractions. Participants spend part of their time supporting c

TWESA is a local NGO based in Karonga, Malawi, which was established on 1st December 2015. TWESA aims to positively impact the citizens of Karonga district to create a healthy, educated and gender balanced society. TWESA is working in five thematic areas: Women and Youth Empowerment: Training in in

The Ceiba Foundation offers a variety of internships in conservation, research, education, and community development. These internships are a great way to combine your academic background with hands-on field experience. Broaden your horizons and gain valuable experience as you lend a hand to the Cei

Step into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon with the Los Amigos Volunteer Program, an immersive experience at one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Volunteers join a vibrant conservation community, gaining hands-on skills while contributing to meaningful science. Activities range from wildlif

Join GCAC in Costa Rica and experience service, learning, and the vibrant spirit of Pura Vida in one of Latin America’s most biodiverse regions. This immersive program combines meaningful volunteer work with exploration and cultural connection. Your primary service project will take place at the Co

We are looking for passionate volunteers to join our ongoing research projects. Working with our Director of Ecological Research, the volunteer will practice research skills and such as taking samples, observing and identifying species, and using camera traps. Projects change seasonally, so please c

Askari provides volunteers with the opportunity to live and work on a pristine 17 500 hectare wilderness reserve. Askari is located on Pidwa Wilderness Reserve in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Wildlife monitoring, data collection and reserve maintenance are all an integral part of the Askari

ZIVO is a community-based internship and volunteering organization located in Zanzibar, dedicated to creating meaningful impact through healthcare, education, community development, and cultural exchange programs. ZIVO connects international volunteers and interns with local communities, providing o

Gain practical healthcare experience through our Medical Placement Program in Ghana. This program is ideal for pre-med students, medical professionals, and public health students or graduates seeking international clinical exposure. Participants are placed in hospitals, clinics, maternity centres,

Are you ready to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world conservation? For more than two decades, Centre for Eco-Cultural Studies (CES) has been a trusted global leader in experiential education. We have proudly hosted international students, academic researchers, and university cohor

Join our team in Tenerife to gain hands-on experience in responsible whale watching and cetacean fieldwork. Volunteers join our crew during whale watching tours up to 6 days per week, depending on weather and sea conditions. Tasks may include cetacean searching, behavioral observations, data collec

Discover Tanzania while making a real difference. Join the Kyosei Foundation and support education and farming at Kyosei Pre & Primary School. Work on an organic farm project that provides food for students and teaches sustainable agriculture. Engage with children through education, sports, and life

Ready to roll up your sleeves and create real, lasting change? Active Volunteers Abroad (AVA) connects passionate volunteers with meaningful projects in some of the world's most vibrant communities. Whether you're helping local farmers in Vietnam, supporting community development in India, or assist

Volunteer with us at Romelia Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica, which protects over 230 hectares of tropical forests and beaches in the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s blue zones. Our sea turtle conservation project runs from May to December. During this time, we conduct patrols, collect eggs, rel

CAYE is a registered youth charitable organization in Mzuzu, Malawi. Established in 2014, CAYE works in the Northern Region and parts of the Central Region to empower young people, women, and small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development. CAYE focuses on yo

Join the Oceans Alive Marine Conservation Project in Kilifi, Kenya—a hands-on volunteer initiative dedicated to the protection and restoration of coastal ecosystems along the Indian Ocean. Based in the vibrant community of Kilifi, this program engages volunteers in daily conservation action, educati

Wolves in Portugal face significant challenges due to habitat destruction and human persecution, with many unable to survive in the wild after becoming dependent on humans. That’s where dedicated conservation centers come in—providing refuge for wolves rescued from zoos, illegal trapping, or other c

This program aims to provide volunteers with knowledge on various aspects of cetacean and marine macrofauna research and vital coastal monitoring techniques. It includes a course that presents a strong theoretical component, with different lectures covering diverse topics: biology, anatomy, ecology

Based in the iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area, this program offers a practical introduction to ocean conservation on one of Africa’s most diverse coastlines. Sharklife is a long-standing marine conservation non-profit with an established field station in Sodwana Bay, providing a secure and profess

Join Love The Oceans for an immersive 5 week marine conservation program designed for aspiring ocean professionals. Based in the stunning Mission Blue Hope Spot of Jangamo Bay, this expedition combines hands-on fieldwork with professional development and community engagement. You’ll learn research t

Rwenzori Royal Institute and Mohama (RWEMO) is a community-driven organization dedicated to environmental conservation, education, and women’s empowerment in the Rwenzori region of Uganda. We believe that protecting nature goes hand in hand with uplifting people. Our mission is to safeguard natural

Join us in Osa, Costa Rica, for an unforgettable volunteer experience where you’ll play a vital role in protecting sea turtles and their habitats. Nestled on the stunning Osa Peninsula, home to 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, you’ll patrol pristine beaches, safeguard turtle nests, and release hatc

The reptile and amphibian diversity of the Sterkspruit Nature Reserve, located outside the town of Mashishing in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, has not been quantitatively assessed. The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency, in collaboration with the management of Sterkspruit Nature Reserve, has c

As a volunteer at Amazon Shelter, you’ll be immersed in every part of our vital conservation work. From preparing specialized diets and feeding the animals to enriching their enclosures, collecting fresh leaves for our Howler monkeys, cleaning habitats, and assisting with repairs and maintenance, yo

Join MDF in shaping the next generation of climate leaders through the STREAMS model, a unique approach blending Science, Technology, Research/Robotics, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Sports/Scuba. As a volunteer, you will work directly with children and youth aged 5 to 26 years, helping them c

Volunteer in Uganda – Make a Real Difference Join Msafiri Tours for a life-changing volunteer experience in Uganda. Contribute your time and energy to schools, rural communities, and impactful projects nationwide. Opportunities Include: -Teaching & Education: Support local schools, tutor children,

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation engages communities and partners across the United States to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources within the National Marine Sanctuary System. Through its volunteering program, the Foundation offers opportunities to contribute to conservati